Barcelona coach Hansi Flick is absolutely livid as a top attacker fails to meet the intense pressing demands of his system.
While the iconic German manager has endeavored to instill a high-pressing, possession-based style rooted in aggressive defense and rapid transitions, inconsistencies remain, particularly on the left flank.
Flick’s system demands precise coordination and relentless intensity.
Still, recent matches have exposed vulnerabilities that opponents have exploited, forcing Hansi Flick and his coaching staff to reflect critically on performance gaps.
The focal point of Flick’s concerns is Marcus Rashford, a player who has electrified Barcelona’s attack with his pace and creativity but whose defensive shortcomings have increasingly drawn scrutiny, as reported by Diario Sport.
Despite being one of the team’s most potent offensive weapons this season, Rashford has struggled to meet the rigorous defensive demands in Flick’s setup.
His limited tracking back and failure to support Alejandro Balde on the left flank have led to defensive overloads, leaving the backline exposed in key moments.
Notably, in the recent UEFA Champions League clash with Club Brugge, a breakdown involving Balde’s failure to close down a winger led to Barcelona conceding an early goal — a critical example of how these tactical lapses can be costly.
Flick’s frustration is also compounded by the prolonged absence of the dynamic Raphinha, whose high work rate and relentless pressing were vital in maintaining Barcelona’s team shape and offensive-defensive balance.
Without him, transitions have become disjointed, and the forward line less cohesive, forcing extra strain on Rashford and others to fill the void.
As Barcelona prepares for the pivotal match against Celta Vigo, Flick’s focus will undoubtedly be on tightening defensive coordination and restoring balance to the left flank, a crucial step if the Catalan giants hope to contend on multiple fronts this season.
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